Myopia Control with Plaza Vision Center in Dallas, TX

For most people, myopia (nearsightedness) develops in childhood. Unfortunately, there is often a period of rapid progression in the several years after it is first diagnosed until the prescription stabilizes sometime during the teens to 20s, and high levels of myopia are now known to increase the risk of sight threatening conditions later in life. Dr. Newman, our eye doctor in Dallas, TX here at Plaza Vision Center, uses several methods to slow the progression of childhood myopia, a process called myopia control.

What is Myopia?

Myopia is the proper name for nearsightedness. Typically, it develops because the eye elongates abnormally from front to back as a child is growing. This means that light coming into the eye focuses in front of the retina, rather than properly on its surface. This results in blurred distance vision.

Children with myopia may not complain about their condition and their schoolwork may not suffer because they can usually read and write comfortably close up. For this reason and others, it is important to take your child to the optometrist on a regular basis. Myopia control only works to slow the progression of the condition, so the earlier this type of eye care is started, the better.

Myopia Control Options

There are several different methods of reducing the progression of myopia in children, with different levels of scientific support. The four types of myopia control that are currently accepted as likely having some value include three types of lenses and one medication.

A drug called atropine seems to reduce myopia progression. In some cases, "rebound myopia", or an increase in myopia progression, can occur when it is stopped.

Orthokeratology (Ortho-k) or corneal refractive therapy (CRT) lenses are rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses that are worn at night to improve vision during the day for both children and adults. For many children, these RGP lenses appear to slow the progression of myopia when worn nightly.

Multifocal soft contact lenses are another option that appears to be effective. These lenses are specially designed for myopia control, and several studies have shown them to be effective compared to conventional soft contact lenses or glasses.

Multifocal glasses may be helpful for some children. However, the evidence is not as clear for this form of myopia control. Some studies show a positive effect and others do not.

Spending time outdoors is an important element in preventing the progression of nearsightedness.

Schedule an Appointment Today in Dallas, TX at Plaza Vision Center!

If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, there are ways to slow the progression of the condition. Our optometrist is happy to speak with you about options for myopia control, including RGP lenses, soft contact lenses, and more. To make an appointment for any of your eye care needs, contact our eye doctor at Plaza Vision Center in Dallas, TX at (214) 969-0467 today!

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